Chapter 94 Outpost

Chapter 94 Outpost

The strategic layout of the Calumet town was a complex chessboard that the US Military sought to control. Flanked by the vast, undulating sea on the eastern perimeter and a formidable range of mountains to the north, the town presented a formidable challenge in terms of defense and offense.

To maintain vigilance and control, the military strategically positioned four companies in separate outposts, meticulously choosing the locales based on tactical advantages. Two outposts stood as silent sentinels to the south, protecting any vulnerabilities from that flank. The remaining two outposts were established to the west, forming a protective arc around the town.

Among these outposts, Delta Company had been assigned to a rather peculiar location: an outpost situated further up the western side of Calante. At first glance, it appeared desolate, with stretches of barren land surrounding it, but to a discerning eye, this position was of paramount importance. The remoteness could act as a veil, hiding their movements and strategies. However, its proximity to certain vital points made it susceptible to being a hotbed of enemy activity, making it potentially the most dangerous site among the four.

Upon receiving fresh directives from the higher echelons of the military, a wave of movement commenced. Various militia units, akin to an orchestrated symphony, began their march toward their designated locations. Among them was Alan and his band of 40 men.

The assembly point was strategically set about 10 miles outside the town. It provided the ideal distance to ensure rapid mobilization while maintaining safety from any immediate threat. Here, amidst the rustling of the trees and the soft murmur of anticipation, a diverse group gathered. Apart from the stalwart Delta Company, which boasted a robust 200 players, five additional militia groups had joined the rendezvous, bringing the combined strength to a little over 600 players.

The journey led them to a rugged terrain dominated by jagged cliffs and craggy outcrops. Tucked away in this harsh landscape was Delta company's handiwork—a makeshift fortification, ingeniously concealed by the natural topology. The soldiers had capitalized on the environment, converting a spacious cave into their temporary headquarters. Its entrance was strategically fortified, camouflaged to remain undetectable to the untrained eye.

Within the cave, the atmosphere was markedly different. Torches illuminated the walls, revealing a hive of activity as soldiers hurried about, preparing for the imminent operation. At the heart of this underground labyrinth, Lieutenant Marsh had established his command center. As the echoing footfalls of officers and militia leaders reverberated through the cave, Marsh's authoritative voice beckoned them for a critical briefing.

"I am Lieutenant Marsh, and tomorrow's mission will be under my command."

Alan found himself studying the Lieutenant, trying to piece together his fragmented memories of the man. Alan didn't remember much about the man other than the fact that Delta company leader was a brave officer who died bravely while successfully finishing his objective? even against insurmountable odds.

Despite his relatively young age, Marsh's demeanor exuded an aura of authority and experience. But as he laid out his strategy, Alan felt a growing unease. Marsh's gaze rarely, if ever, shifted towards the militia units. It was as if they were an afterthought, only becoming relevant when he instructed them on the boundaries of their engagement.

"Our objective was to create a diversion, engaging as many of them as possible while the special forces do their job"

Despite the difficulty of the task, Marsh nominated only two of the five militia units to accompany him in the heart of the battle. These chosen ones were led by individuals with military backgrounds, a fact that seemed to weigh heavily in their favor.

To Alan, Marsh's plan was emblematic of a leader who leaned too heavily on conventional wisdom, failing to see the potential value in unconventional assets. The primary reliance on the main army and the sideline role allocated to the militias spoke of a potential lack of vision.

While Alan recognized this, he was also acutely aware of his position. Without any significant rank or recognition, influencing the strategy was a tall order. He knew that to find a place at the table, he would have to demonstrate his value in undeniable terms.

Yet the conundrum was evident—how could he make a tangible impact when the very opportunity to do so was being denied?

As the cave meeting drew to its close, Lieutenant Marsh, with a final show of begrudging trust, handed over military-grade equipment to each militia leader. It was precisely the tool Alan had been hoping for—a [military radio] designed for long-range communication, encased in a sturdy, matte black casing, its buttons perfectly calibrated for tactile response.

While these devices signified trust, Lieutenant Marsh's accompanying message imposed boundaries. His voice, echoing through the cave, became sharp,

"Remember," he warned, "You have considerable autonomy out here, but the town is off-limits. Do not—under any circumstances—venture there without my explicit order."

Following that clear directive, Marsh gestured towards the mouth of the cave, signaling the end of the briefing. It was time to set up camp and prepare for the night. Soldiers began moving out, each knowing the importance of rest before the impending battle.

Delta Company, the heart of this operation, had a fortified encampment already established. Yet, this camp wasn't expansive enough to house the full strength of 600 men that now populated the cliffs. Consequently, Lieutenant Marsh prioritized: the two chosen militia units that were invited to share this space, leaving Alan and the leaders of the other two militias in a quandary about their lodging.

"Figure it out amongst yourselves."

Arriving late and being relatively smaller in numbers, the 17th Militia found themselves at a disadvantage. The topography's premium spots were quickly claimed, and the larger militia units asserted their dominance, their intentions crystal clear.

Militia 13, the most sizable and imposing group, had already begun setting up camp on a strategic vantage point – a plateau that offered clear views of the surrounding area. Their leader was known to have served as a police captain before joining the game.

"We are taking this spot," he declared.

Moving further along, hoping to find an unclaimed location, the 17th Militia faced another obstacle. The smaller Militia 15 had secured a perch atop a rocky cliff that gave them natural defense and allowed them to monitor any approaching threats. With a smirk, their leader, a lithe and agile-looking man, chided, "This cliff's ours. you lot can play guards in the forest"

This blatant territoriality ruffled the feathers of some of Alan's crew. Merle, in particular, with his fiery temper and a posse of boisterous rednecks at his side, looked ready to challenge the decision. However, Alan's calm and firm hand on his shoulder silenced any immediate outbursts. He had always preferred the stealth and concealment the woods provided.

"But Alan," Merle retorted, a hint of frustration in his voice, "we're sidelined here! we won't get much chance for any action here! I need to grind more Xp!"

"Trust me, Merle," Alan replied, his voice steady and reassuring. "I have a plan. Just stick with me."

Leading his group away from the disdainful gazes of the other militia units, Alan sought a location further to the north, his sharp eyes analyzing the landscape. The dense tree cover, natural elevation differences, and intertwining streams made it a perfect spot. He stopped, and with a decisive nod, gathered his group in a clearing.

"Listen up," Alan began, his voice resonant and firm, drawing the attention of every member and detailing his strategy. The plan was meticulous, capitalizing on the environment's natural defenses and vulnerabilities.

They were tasked with digging foxholes at strategic points, camouflaging them with foliage and dirt. Others were given the role of setting up traps using the natural terrain to their advantage. As Alan directed and supervised, the men's initial doubts faded.

The work was grueling, sweat poured, and hands became blistered. Time raced past, and as the first hints of dawn painted the sky, Alan realized they had only a precious few hours to rest before the anticipated morning confrontation.

As the sun began its ascent, casting long shadows across the woods, Alan stood amidst his now somewhat weary but determined group. With a piercing gaze that instilled both hope and determination, he asked, "Alright boys, are you ready?"

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